A SERIOUS HOUSE ON A SERIOUS EARTH
BY JUSTIN ALMONTE
ELMWOOD
“A serious house on serious earth it is / In whose blent air all our compulsions meet, / Are recognised, and robed as destinies. / And that much never can be obsolete, / Since someone will forever be surprising / A hunger in himself to be more serious, / And gravitating with it to this ground, / Which, he once heard, was proper to grow wise in, / If only that so many dead lie round.”
– Philip Larkin, Church Going.
This film highlights the subtle beauty that lies within Elmwood’s fractured concrete, overgrown back lanes, and decaying buildings. These often-overlooked details create unexpected paradises, revealing beauty in the most unlikely of places.
Larkin, Philip. “Church Going.” In The Less Deceived. (London, UK: The Marvell Press, 1955).
HILDA AND ISABEL’S 2:00 PM WALK
BY JORY THOMAS-BLANCHARD
WILLIAM WHYTE
This film explores the concept of paradise as a fleeting moment in the William Whyte neighbourhood. For two elders, Hilda and Isabel, paradise is not to be found in a place but at a time. For Hilda and Isabel, this state of bliss is the hour between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Having been mugged by a gang of kids in the past, around the time school was out for the day, their perception of the day and their neighborhood has now been forever altered. This fleeting moment of peace and safety becomes their personal paradise, a temporary escape from the challenges of inner-city life.
A WALKER’S PARADISE
BY ELIA NIKKEL
CENTRAL ST. BONIFACE
‘A Walker's Paradise’ explores the abundance of walking paths in Central Saint Boniface, highlighting the neighbourhood's accessibility and pedestrian-friendly design. The film showcases various points of interest along these paths, including historical landmarks, gardens, and scenic views. These interconnected pathways create a sense of paradise for walkers, offering opportunities for exploration, recreation, and connection with nature. The film emphasizes the beauty and tranquility of these spaces, inviting viewers to experience the unique charm of Central Saint Boniface on foot.
SEARCHING
BY SHIZA JAWED
NORWOOD WEST
‘Searching’ explores the unique space within the urban fabric of the Norwood West community, a smaller subdivision of Norwood Flats. In 1948, Plan 4804 was created for the Norwood Flats community which followed the principles of the Radburn design concept, emphasizing green spaces and hiding vehicular infrastructure. The plan connected the fronts of homes not to a road but to a series of sidewalks converging in a single pathway surrounded by gardens. Here, neighbours share amenities like a mini gallery, books, and play structures. For centuries, people have created beautiful gardens to achieve a sense of paradise on Earth; this feeling of serenity can be distinguished in this enclave within Norwood West.
GETTING AWAY
BY RACHEL MCKIEL
RIVERVIEW
‘Getting Away’ explores the concept of paradise through the lens of Riverview residents who find solace in the neighbourhood's river trail. The film contrasts the serenity of the trail with the anxiety-inducing hustle and bustle of Osborne Street South, emphasizing the importance of green spaces as escapes from urban chaos. The lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature along the riverbank offer a welcome respite from the noise and stress of city life, creating a sense of peace and tranquility that embody the ideal of paradise.
A FLEETING MOMENT
BY AKSHAY NAIR
LORD ROBERTS
‘A Fleeting Moment’ captures the essence of Lord Roberts through its vibrant culinary scene. The film highlights popular food spots along Osborne Street and Jubilee Avenue, showcasing the diverse flavours and cultural experiences that the neighbourhood offers. These culinary destinations create fleeting moments of paradise for residents and visitors alike, offering a chance to relax, connect, and indulge in delicious food. From coffee shops to ice cream parlours, these spaces foster a sense of community and celebrate the diverse cultures that make Lord Roberts unique.
FRIENDLY NEIGHBOUR
BY JULIA RENDULIC
LORD ROBERTS
‘Friendly Neighbour’ portrays the strong sense of community and neighbourliness in Lord Roberts. The film captures the essence of a connected neighbourhood where residents know and support each other, creating a welcoming and safe environment. This close-knit community fosters a sense of belonging and shared experiences, reflecting the paradise of human connection and the importance of social bonds in urban life.
ISLAND OF CONNECTIVITY
BY ANA ORTIZ ROSERO
EARL GREY
Located just south of downtown Winnipeg, Earl Grey stands as an island surrounded by highly busy streets. Named after Governor General Earl Grey, the area features a school at Cockburn Street and Fleet Avenue, honoring him through the first junior high school in Western Canada. The neighbourhood’s central location makes it a popular choice for students and professionals, who benefit from easy access to the rest of the city. Pembina Highway to the east serves as a major transportation route. The perimeter of Earl Grey is characterized by high traffic flow, creating a mix of sounds, sights, and smells. Inside the neighborhood, tranquility prevails, offering peaceful streets for walking or cycling. Within this calm atmosphere, residents can reach key destinations quickly, making it a perfect blend of connectivity and serenity.